
Officer Antonio Careccia was honored for 35 years of service to the Margate Police Department {David Volz}
Officer Antonio “Tony” Careccia was honored for serving as a Margate police officer for 35 years during the July 9 meeting.
Chief Michael Palma presented him with a plaque and praised his efforts and commitment to the residents of Margate. Commissioner Tommy Ruzzano said he loved the work he has done for the city.
Careccia is now a school resource officer at Margate Elementary School, where he teaches the D.A.R.E. program. “I show the students why they should avoid drugs, alcohol, and gangs, but I know the challenges kids face today,” said Careccia.
When Careccia began his career in Margate, the department was different. “It was a lot smaller, and we were a family. I could retire now, but I love being a police officer,” said.
Careccia has enjoyed serving the community. One of his first projects was to begin Neighborhood Watch groups. Then he began the Night Out event. “I remember we started with two packages of hot dogs, and last year we gave away 3,500 hot dogs. We have a big Night Out,” he said.
As he approached the podium, community leaders stood up and shared brief memories of Careccia when he was their school resource officer. Sergeant Mary Crabtree, his supervisor, described him as a great police officer. His son, Gregory Careccia, is now a Boca Raton police officer and participated in the ceremony.
Got News in Margate? Send it to Margate Talk. Don’t Miss Reading NW Broward County’s #1 News Sites: Coconut Creek Talk, Coral Springs Talk, Parkland Talk, Tamarac Talk, and South FL News.
Author Profile

Latest entries
NewsMarch 4, 2026Margate Youth Camp Registration Opens March 16 for Summer Program Packed With Activities
NewsMarch 3, 2026Calypso Cove Pool in Margate to Open for Spring Break
NewsMarch 2, 2026Mayor Antonio Arserio Seeks Another Term on Margate Commission, Focuses on Public Safety and Downtown Development
NewsFebruary 25, 2026Margate Fishing Event and Garage Sale Planned for March








